Will you miss not seeing the Class 1A Division II state high school basketball championships being hosted at Gross Memorial Coliseum on the campus of Fort Hays State University this year? (FHSU and KSHSAA has decided to relocate this year's tournament to Dodge City since the FHSU women have the possibility of hosting an NCAA Division II regional tourney.)

I hope everyone in Hays appreciates just how fortunate we are to have the Hays Larks baseball team as part of our community's history and as present summer entertainment.

Larks games provide wholesome entertainment in a family friendly atmosphere -- all for free admission.

Free admission is made possible by sponsorship from business and civic leaders in our community.

In addition, the Larks program honors people in the community during First Responder Night, Military Appreciation Night and Pack the Pantry Night, which benefits Hays Community Assistance Center.

The Larks also sponsor Old Timer's Night, where former Larks are recognized. Frank Leo knows much of the history of the Larks as he has coached and served as the Larks' general manager for 31 years.

He is currently assisted by Keith Harper, Dusty Washburn and Jay Sanders. This coaching staff led the Larks to another winning season in the Jayhawk League and earned the team a trip to the National Baseball Congress World Series.

The Larks are followed by loyal fans who packed the historic Larks park many summer evenings to watch competitive baseball and experience one of the greatest all-American past-times.

I personally want to thank Frank, Keith, Dusty, Jay and the Hays Larks for another fantastic summer at the ballpark.